Eleven Years of Go Independent, Shop Small (Anywhere, USA)

Today marks 11 years since I had the brilliant and yet foolish idea to believe I could change things (ha ha 😄). Lots of potential, I thought to myself, for what could happen with a mind that runs overtime, a heart that loves independent businesses fiercely, and a person who knows that the pieces of life which made our world a better place are about the change forever. The economy has shifted; people have changed; and for many of us, the focus is no longer on community connections, running into neighbors in local stores, or knowing people who give a hoot about you. But while technology and social media and consumerism have marched on, some things will always stay the same; humans need fellow humans in their lives. We need, although we are hell-bent on denying it, real conversations and interactions to be balanced, complete and less selfish and self-centered....but caught up in the shiny, sparkly world of one-click this and buy now-pay-later options which feed greed, we've forgotten what matters more.

I wish I had the answers to what would return independents to the our cities and small towns; I wish there was a formula to follow for reinstating the cornerstones and pillars of our communities, but we all know it's not that simple....and yet, in every corner of this country, incredible people keep holding on, and holding strong. For every single person who's ventured out on their own to chase a dream.....to each talented artist who's taken a leap of faith into fear and set out to pursue their passion..... to the families who arrive at their corner grocery at 4am to bake, cook and prep..... to the mom and pop store owners who rely on, but don't count the dollars as much as they value the role they play in the community..... to everyone who puts in long hours 7 days a week......YOU are the true epitome of the "American Dream".

Let's keep the lights on in these places and the doors wide open, so our kids and friends and neighbors can experience the joy and soul of a real independently owned experience.


Live ❤️ love ❤️ local ♥️
#11years
#LiveLocalUSA
#happybirthdaytous
#eleventhanniversary
#smallbusinesslove
#avoiceforsmallbusiness
#togetherweachievemore
#becauseyoumatter

Choose better - spend with independent businesses

(and real people!) where you live. Follow @